The iPad 2 is complemented by the Smart Cover, but that leaves the back of the iPad vulnerable to scratches and can be a bit difficult to grip for some users. We have looked at numerous ways to protect the back of the iPad 2, and now we have another method of protection – the Bodyguardz Armor Carbon Fiber iPad 2 Skin. This skin retails for $29.95 and comes in black or white carbon fiber. The skin includes a screen protector that will protect the front of the iPad 2 and is anti-glare so that you have better outdoor visibility.

Like the Bodyguardz skin we installed on the HTC Thunderbolt, the iPad 2 skin was fairly easy to install. Because the iPad 2 is larger, we did have to spend several minutes finding just the right lineup which was a bit frustrating. Thankfully the skin is able to be removed and re-applied numerous times. After about 5 minutes, some deep breathing and a calm approach we were able to get the skin lined up just right.

The Carbon Armor Skin has cutouts for the iPad 2 camera, speaker grill, volume control, orientation switch and audio jack. The corners of the iPad 2 are still a little open due to the corner design which is cutout to keep bubbles or wrinkling from taking away from the clean look and feel.

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One item we were a bit confused by was the cutout on the upper left side (while looking a the rear) which doesn’t appear to serve a purpose. There is a small piece that can be placed in this area, but we aren’t sure why the cutout is there in the first place. You can see a bit of the cutout in the image below.

Update: Bodyguardz let us know that this cutout is in place for iPad 2 3G + WiFi units which have a SIM card slot in this location.

The screen protector is thinner than some other anti-glare ones that we have tried, which is a good thing in our opinion. You can tell there is a protector on the iPad 2, but i you like the benefits of an anti-glare display, this is one you will like. Installation on a screen as large as the iPad 2 is tricky but not impossible. If you happen to get dust on the protector you can follow a detailed set of instructions to clean it off and reapply. We suggest you take your time and work in as close to a dust free zone as possible. I personally like a “naked” screen, but the included protector is of nice quality and is a great addition for the price.

The Smart Cover still works with the Armor Carbon Fiber iPad 2 Skin, but we wouldn’t recommend hanging it on your fridge since the magnets do feel a little bit weaker than normal. We can still lift the iPad 2 up with the case, and it stays connected in normal use, but the iPad may come loose after a lighter shake than normal.

Josh Smith is Editor of GottaBeMobile and Notebooks.com. He's always looking for ways to help you get the most of your gear and loves to talk about tech on radio and TV. Josh uses an iOS and Android devices as well as Mac and Windows Computers. Josh Smith on Google+
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